Breathwork vs. psychedelics — What do Breathwork and psychedelics have in common

In our search for new perspectives and inner transformation, we come across various methods time and again. Two of these that have gained popularity in recent years are Breathwork and psychedelics.

In this blog post, I'd like to shed some light on both methods and point out their similarities and differences.

Breathwork

Breathwork - also known as conscious connected breathing - is an ancient technique that can improve our health and well-being in many ways. Through targeted breathing patterns, we can calm our mind, reduce stress, integrate suppressed emotions and reach new levels of consciousness.

You can find out more about Breathwork here.

Psychedelics

Psychedelics, on the other hand, are mind-altering substances that can lead to intense and often transformative experiences. They can help us overcome fears and blockages, gain new insights, and connect with our deepest selves.

What do Breathwork and psychedelics (such as psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, DMT, LSD etc.) have in common?

Both methods are thousands of years old and are becoming increasingly popular – both in the spiritual scene and in scientific research – as they have the potential to promote psychological healing, self-awareness, and personal growth.

But what exactly do Breathwork and psychedelics have in common? And how do they differ from each other?

Similarities between Breathwork and psychedelics

Breathwork and psychedelics have several things in common that make them interesting tools for exploring human consciousness. Here are some of them:

Both methods lead to extraordinary and mind-expanding states of consciousness. Different areas of the brain are activated than in normal everyday life. Practitioners can often go deep within themselves, recognize old patterns and new perspectives, release blockages, intensify body awareness, and much more.
Both Breathwork and psychedelics can lead to states that differ from normal waking consciousness. The senses can be heightened, time distorted, emotions intensified and creativity enhanced. In addition, both methods can lead to transpersonal experiences that create a sense of connection, unity and spirituality.
The DMN is a network of brain regions that is particularly active when we are lost in thought, remembering the past or planning for the future. The DMN is also connected to our ego, our identity and our self-image. Both Breathwork and psychedelics can reduce the activity of the DMN, which can lead to a reduction of the ego and an opening to new perspectives. This may also explain why both methods can be helpful in the treatment of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders or addiction, which are often associated with an overactive or rigid DMN.
The limbic system is a part of the brain that is responsible for processing emotions, memories and motivations. Both Breathwork and psychedelics can stimulate the limbic system, which can lead to increased emotional sensitivity and a release of repressed or suppressed feelings. This can be both therapeutic and challenging, depending on how the person deals with these emotions. Therefore, it is important to practice both methods in a safe and supportive setting to allow for positive integration.
DMT, or N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, is a powerful psychedelic compound found in various plants and is the main active ingredient in Ayahuasca, among other things.
However, we humans can also produce DMT in the form of a hormone. Breathwork can increase this hormone production.
DMT has a strong psychedelic effect that can cause profound changes in consciousness, intense visual and auditory hallucinations, feelings of euphoria, and a sense of deep spiritual insight or mystical experiences.

Differences between Breathwork and psychedelics

While Breathwork and psychedelics have many similarities, they also have some key differences that should be considered when choosing the appropriate method. Here are some of them:

Although various studies are underway and a few psychotherapists are allowed to use psychedelics in their therapy, this is unfortunately still the exception.
Tip: Some psychedelics are legal in places like Holland...
Breathwork has a shorter duration of effect than most psychedelics. A typical Breathwork lasts about an hour, whereby the breather can influence the intensity at any time and , if necessary, take a break or stop completely.
A psychedelic experience can last anywhere from 15 minutes to twelve hours, depending on the substance and dose. This has both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, a shorter duration can be less strenuous and easier to integrate. On the other hand, a longer duration can provide more time for deeper exploration and transformation. Once the psychedelic journey has started, you have to go through with it until the effects wear off.
Breathwork works primarily by changing the oxygen and carbon dioxide content, which on the one hand puts the nervous system in an exceptional state and on the other hand influences the blood circulation and electrical activity of the brain.
Psychedelics primarily work by binding to certain receptors in the brain, especially serotonin receptors, which are responsible for regulating mood, perception, and cognition. This can lead to increased communication and networking between different brain regions.
Breathwork generally has fewer risks and side effects than psychedelics, as it does not require external substances that can lead to unwanted interactions. However, Breathwork can also lead to short-term physical complaints such as dizziness, nausea, headaches or muscle cramps. In addition, Breathwork, like psychedelics, can lead to psychological stress such as anxiety, panic, paranoia or trauma reactivation if the experience is not adequately accompanied or integrated. For this reason, it is recommended that both methods are practiced under qualified guidance.

Set and Setting

(Mind)-Set and setting are two of the most crucial factors that influence how an experience unfolds. They are just as important as the method/substance/dosage, and together they form the framework for the entire experience.

(Mind)-Set refers to the person's internal state - their state of mind, attitude, and mood.

Setting, on the other hand, describes the physical environment in which the experience takes place. This includes the location or room, the company of fellow travelers, the support provided, and the music that is played.

Always make sure that the set and setting feel right for you before embarking on a transformative experience!

The most well-known classic psychedelics

Psilocybin is a psychoactive substance found in specific types of mushrooms, such as Psilocybe cubensis. It's famous for its hallucinogenic effects and has long been part of spiritual and religious practices in various cultures. Psilocybin affects a person's perception, thinking, and mood and is often described as a discovery of the inner world. Current research is investigating the possible therapeutic use of psilocybin for depression, anxiety disorders, and addiction.
LSD, also known as lysergic acid diethylamide, is a powerful drug with hallucinogenic effects. It is extracted from a fungus that grows on various types of grain. LSD is usually taken orally in the form of blotting paper and can alter perception, mood, and thought processes. These changes are caused by its effect on serotonin receptors in the brain. This leads to profound changes in sensory perception, emotional state, and thought patterns. Users may experience vivid hallucinations, an altered sense of time, and intense mood swings. LSD is currently being investigated as a possible therapy option for various mental disorders.
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew that has been used by the natives of the Amazon basin for centuries as a spiritual and healing remedy. It is made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and other plants that contain the hallucinogen DMT. Taking Ayahuasca can lead to intense experiences that are often described as profound and transformative. Many people who have consumed Ayahuasca report deep insights, spiritual revelations, and emotional healing.
In the western world, it has gained popularity due to its potential therapeutic effects, including the treatment of depression, anxiety, and addiction. Careful preparation and respect for its traditional roots are essential for its use.

Conclusion

Breathwork and psychedelics can help you experience expanded states of consciousness that promote psychic healing, self-awareness and personal growth. Both methods have similarities, such as the reduction of the default mode network, the activation of the limbic system and the experience of transpersonal experiences. However, there are also differences in terms of legality, duration of effect, mechanisms of action, risks and side effects. Inform yourself thoroughly and seek experienced guidance before trying any of these methods.

Which path is right for you?

That's for you to decide. The answer depends on your individual needs and goals. If you're afraid of losing control, breathwork might be the more suitable way to start. But no matter which path you choose, the journey to yourself is an adventure full of surprises and wonders.

Tap into your inner wisdom and discover the potential that lies dormant within you.

Would you like to try Breathwork ?

Are you looking for a gentle and safe method to improve your mental health and expand your awareness? Then Breathwork could be just the thing for you. Would you like to try Breathwork or experience it even more deeply with trauma-sensitive support?

Come and breathe with me